AttractionTickets.com has announced the launch of Disney’s highly anticipated 2027 Free Dine offer, giving Irish holidaymakers the opportunity to enjoy free dining at Walt Disney World Resort when booking a qualifying hotel and ticket package. Deemed as one of Disney’s most popular promotions, the Free Dine offer allows guests to receive a Disney Dining Plan at no additional cost, depending on the category of resort they choose.  The AttractionTickets.com team did the maths and worked out that a family of four (2 adults, 2 children) could save up to €2300 on food and drinks using the offer over a 7-day stay. Guests staying at Value Resorts can typically enjoy one quick-service meal per person, per night. Moderate Resort guests can benefit from the Quick-Service Dining Plan, which includes two quick-service meals and one snack per person, per night. Guests opt in 919g for Deluxe Resorts will receive the full Disney Dining Plan, offering a combination of table-service and quick-service meals alongside a daily snack, ensuring that every member of the family is fuelled for a day filled with fun. With demand expected to be high, Disney-fanatics and holidaymakers alike are encouraged to book early to secure the best value for summer 2027, with options tailored to suit both budget and style. AttractionTickets.com  are offering special early bird pricing for the offer launch, plus up to an additional 12% off the total package price.  Chris Bradshaw, Marketing Director for AttractionTickets.com comments: “The Free Dine offer is one of the most popular Disney offers among UK and Ireland guests, and for good reason. It provides great value, particularly for families, by covering a major part of in-destination spending, so that you can leave your worries at home. We expect strong demand again this year, especially during the initial launch period, so we’d encourage customers to book early to avoid disappointment.” The offer will be exclusively available to book in the UK and Ireland between the 21st April 2026 and the 4th November 2026 and is valid on selected 2027 travel dates. A minimum stay of 5 nights and a maximum stay of 21 nights applies, and guests must purchase a Disney ticket as part of the package.

What better way to spend a sunny weekend than puffin watching? Visit the Saltee Islands, where puffin colonies offer an incredible wildlife spectacle between late March and early August each year. Where Are the Saltee Islands? Located off the southeastern coast of Ireland, the Saltee Islands consist of two main islands: Great Saltee and Little Saltee. These privately-owned islands are renowned for their rich biodiversity and are particularly famous for their bird populations, with puffins being the star attraction. The islands are situated about 5 kilometers from Kilmore Quay in Wexford, making them easily accessible for a weekend trip. Getting There To reach the Saltee Islands, head to Kilmore Quay, a charming fishing village where you can catch a boat to Great Saltee. Boat trips are typically available from April to September, with the best puffin watching season spanning from late April to early August. Peak months are July and August, so be sure to book your boat trip in advance, as this popular excursion can fill up quickly, especially on weekends. To book, visit salteeferry.com. The trip takes about 20 minutes, and while the ferry will transport you most of the way, it’s important to note that to actually go ashore on the Great Saltee Island, passengers are transferred from the ferry to a dinghy, with a lifejacket provided. There is no dock or pier. Conditions at the landing point are subject to weather and tides. On arriving at the shore, you will step out of the dinghy on to, at best, the sandy shore. Depending on the tide, you may need to step into the waters edge. There could also be seaweed, or loose slippery stones along the shore. Conditions vary on a daily basis depending on weather and tide, and so this excursion is suited to those who are physically fit. There are also no bathrooms on the Islands, as they are both nature reserves, so make sure to go before the boat! What to Expect When you arrive, you’ll be greeted by the stunning scenery of Great Saltee – cliffs, meadows, and truly pristine beaches. On a sunny day, the water here is very clear and turquoise. In early summer, the fields bloom with bluebells, adding to the charm! It takes about 10 minutes to get from shore to top, up some rocky steps. The island is home to a variety of seabirds, but puffins are undoubtedly the main attraction. These birds, with their colorful beaks and comical expressions, are a delight to observe and photograph. Puffins nest in burrows on the island’s cliffs, and you can watch them as they go about their daily routines; fishing, flying, and socialising, at a recommended distance of 6 metres. Early morning or late afternoon visits offer the best light for photography and a higher chance of seeing the puffins as they return from their fishing expeditions. Exploring the Island Great Saltee is relatively small, making it easy to explore on foot. There are no facilities on the island, so it’s important to come prepared with essentials like water, snacks, and suitable clothing for the weather. The island’s terrain is varied, with grassy areas, rocky shores, and steep cliffs, so sturdy walking shoes are recommended, and ones that you don’t mind getting wet when getting off the dinghy. In addition to puffins, you might spot other seabirds such as gannets, razorbills, and guillemots. The island is also home to grey seals, which can often be seen lounging on the rocks or swimming in the surrounding waters. Tips for a Solid Visit Bring Binoculars and a Camera: To fully appreciate the puffins and other wildlife, binoculars are a must. A good camera with a zoom lens will help you capture close-up shots of these birds. Dress Appropriately: The weather on the Saltee Islands can be unpredictable, so wear layers and bring a waterproof jacket. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for exploring the terrain. Respect the Wildlife: While it’s exciting to see puffins up close, it’s important to keep a respectful distance to avoid disturbing them. Stick to designated paths and observe quietly. Pack a Picnic: Since there are no facilities on the islands, bringing a picnic allows you to enjoy a meal amidst the beautiful natural surroundings. Remember to take all your rubbish with you to keep the islands pristine. Check the Weather and Tides: Boat trips are weather-dependent, so check the forecast and confirm with your boat operator before setting out. Tides can also affect boat schedules, so plan accordingly. Additional Information & Pricing A trip to the Saltee Islands promises to be a highlight of your summer! To get to know more about the Islands, and to plan your visit, see salteeislands.ie. The cost of the Saltee Ferry is €30 for Adults and €15 for under 12’s. To book, visit salteeferry.com.

Summer in Dublin is all about being out and about, and where you stay makes a real difference to how easily the city fits together. With so much happening across the season, having a central base means you can move between plans without overthinking logistics. Trinity City Hotel puts you right where you need to be. Just steps from Trinity College and a short walk to Grafton Street, it’s an easy starting point for enjoying a perfect summer in the city. What’s on in Dublin this summer Dublin’s summer calendar is defined by a run of standout events that shape the season from early May through September, each bringing a different pace and atmosphere to the city. WellFest is expected to return in from the 12-13th of September, kicking things off with a high-energy weekend of fitness sessions, expert talks and wellness experiences that draw a strong mix of local and international visitors. From there, the focus shifts to food, with Taste of Dublin taking over the Iveagh Gardens from 12–15 June 2026, where some of the city’s best restaurants and chefs come together for a series of tastings, live demonstrations and outdoor dining experiences, all within comfortable walking distance of the Trinity City Hotel. As the summer progresses, Dublin Horse Show returns to the RDS from 5–9 August 2026, combining world-class showjumping with a social calendar that extends well beyond the arena, from style showcases to hospitality events. The season then rounds off with one of Ireland’s most anticipated weekends, as Electric Picnic takes place from 29th-31st of August 2026 in Stradbally. Although the festival takes place outside the city, many people choose to anchor their plans in Dublin, making the most of a night in the capital either side of the weekend, with everything close at hand before heading on or winding down afterwards. With so much happening across a relatively short window, having a central base makes a noticeable difference to how easily it all fits together. Staying at Trinity City Hotel means you’re within walking distance of key city-centre events, with straightforward access to venues like the RDS and direct routes out of the city for larger festivals. It allows you to move between plans without losing time to travel, making it easier to experience more of what Dublin has to offer across the summer season. Your city escape, moments from it all After a full day in the city, returning to Trinity City Hotel offers a more settled pace. The hotel’s accommodation is designed with flexibility in mind, with a range of room types that suit everything from short city breaks to longer stays, depending on how you’re using your time in Dublin. Across the board, there’s a consistent level of comfort. Rooms are well equipped with practical features such as high-speed Wi-Fi, coffee machines, blackout curtains and individually controlled air-conditioning, alongside details like Rituals amenities and quality bedding that make a noticeable difference over the course of a stay. The Contemporary and Deluxe Rooms also provide a reliable, comfortable base, while the Executive Rooms offer more space and a slightly elevated feel, with some located within the hotel’s former fire station building, adding a subtle sense of character without compromising on modern comfort. For those looking for something more spacious, the Georgian Suites stand out, with higher ceilings, large windows and restored period features, balanced with modern finishes such as marble bathrooms and well-designed dressing areas. Dining follows a similar approach. The Courtyard Restaurant focuses on seasonal, locally sourced ingredients in a setting that feels polished but not overly formal. In the summer months, the outdoor courtyard becomes a natural extension of the space, a quieter spot to sit, dine or have a drink while still being right in the centre of the city. Make the most of summer in Dublin Staying central means you’re never far from the next plan, whether that’s a morning wander through nearby streets, an afternoon festival, or a last-minute dinner reservation. Trinity City Hotel places you within easy reach of it all, while still offering a sense of escape when you return. For those planning a summer visit, timing your stay around Dublin’s standout events adds an extra layer to the experience. And with a base like this, the city feels entirely yours to explore. A 5 night stay for summer in the city at the Trinity City Hotel starts at €1,220 for 2 people in a contemporary room. For more, visit https://www.trinitycityhotel.com/en/

Set just outside Killarney in County Kerry, Loch Lein Country House offers a quieter base overlooking Lough Leane, with easy access to Killarney National Park and the wider Ring of Kerry. This is a smaller, country house-style property rather than a large hotel, with a more relaxed, personal feel. Rooms are spacious, and the superior double/twin options in particular make the most of the setting, with views across the lake and towards the surrounding mountains. It’s the kind of place you come back to after a day out and actually want to stay in. You’re only a short drive from Killarney town, but far enough out to avoid the crowds, which makes it a good fit for a summer stay when the area is at its busiest. The deal A five-night stay from 14–19 June 2026 is available from €1,200 total for two people, based on a superior double/twin room. Includes: Superior double or twin room Breakfast each morning Free parking and Wi-Fi For June dates in Kerry, it’s a solid option if you’re prioritising views, location and a quieter setting over a more standard town-centre hotel. To book, visit booking.com.

The 30th Megève Jazz Contest will take place from Friday 10 July in the village streets of Megève, marking its milestone edition with a festive weekend in which eight orchestras, each previously awarded at the contest, perform traditional jazz across multiple locations throughout the village. The event opens on Friday afternoon with performances by the 2025 winners, Happy Six Warmers, alongside an official welcome at the Megève Tourism Amphitheatre, a be-bop dance demonstration by dancers from the Temple of Swing in Paris, and evening off-program concerts hosted in partner restaurants. Saturday’s program combines music and dance with be-bop classes and demonstrations in the Village Square, repeated performances by Happy Six Warmers, and a large-scale competition featuring sixteen New Orleans jazz orchestras performing across twenty stages, judged by a professional jury and the public. On Sunday, the festival continues with a lively street jam session involving all orchestras parading through the village, followed by additional be-bop classes, a final public-voted competition across four stages, and dance demonstrations. The weekend culminates in a gala evening at the Salle Mageva in Le Palais, featuring The Glenn Orchestral Big Band performing a tribute to Glenn Miller, followed by the official results announcement and prize-giving ceremony. Be-bop classes are available for purchase on site, and the full program remains subject to change in case of rain, with updates provided by Megève Tourism. A three-night stay at Au Coin Du Feu, arriving 10 July 2026, is priced from €301 per person, based on two sharing a room with breakfast included; flights and transfers are extra. For more information, visit www.megeve-tourisme.fr/en/.

Swan Hellenic is currently offering 20% off its 10-night Ultimate Svalbard voyage aboard SH Vega, combining high-end expedition cruising with a strong sense of adventure and excellent value. The round-trip voyage from Longyearbyen includes opportunities to take part in Swan Hellenic’s Citizen Science programme, contribute to environmental research and enjoy expert-led talks on Arctic wildlife and exploration, alongside visits to remote highlights such as Kvitøya, where explorer S.A. Andrée’s 1897 North Pole expedition famously ended. Onboard, SH Vega offers a luxurious experience with elegant interiors, floor-to-ceiling windows, a heated outdoor infinity pool, Balinese spa, gym and world-class dining, making it feel far more design-led than a traditional expedition cruise. The 10-night Ultimate Svalbard cruise, departing on 19 June 2026, onboard SH Vega, costs from £6,000 (was £7,500 pp, saving £1,500 pp) based on two-sharing on a Cruise Plus basis. Price includes return charter flights to the port of embarkation/disembarkation, return airport transfers, one-night pre-cruise accommodation, accommodation in a selected stateroom, all meals onboard plus most drinks, 24-hour room service, lecture programmes by experienced expedition team and guest speakers, all expedition landings, one selected shore excursion per port of call, access to gym, sauna and pool, standard Wi-Fi, and onboard gratuities and port taxes. To book, visit www.swanhellenic.com.

Chicago is a city celebrated for its iconic skyline, world-class museums and legendary food scene, but beyond these well-trodden attractions lies a treasure trove of lesser-known experiences waiting to be discovered. From boundary-pushing theatre set within historic landmarks, to lively neighbourhood bars full of character, these local gems offer an authentic way for travellers to explore the city. Papa’s Cache Sabroso Located in Chicago’s Humboldt Park neighbourhood, Papa’s Cache Sabroso is a family-owned Puerto Rican restaurant dedicated to creating a warm, traditional dining experience. Here, travellers can indulge in a delicious jibarito, a plantain-based sandwich invented in Humboldt Park, or try a local favourite like Pollo Chon, made with the restaurant’s signature secret sauce. Known for its rich Puerto Rican heritage and vibrant culture, Humboldt Park is a hidden gem well worth exploring, and Papa’s Cache Sabroso is the perfect place to stop for an authentic meal. HOW: To find out more and to make a reservation, please visit papascache.com  Osito’s Tap Owned by Mike Moreno Jr., Osito’s Tap is a local favourite in Chicago’s vibrant Little Village that offers a lively, speakeasy-style bar experience. Guests can enjoy expertly crafted cocktails with a modern Latinx flair, such as the Yuzu Ranch Water and For Ari, each reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the neighbourhood. The menu has been thoughtfully curated, drawing on Moreno Jr. 's travels through Mexico, where he personally sourced a selection of tequilas and mezcals. Resulting in a distinctive bar that blends Mexican tradition with Chicago’s character, Osito’s Tap is the ideal bar for a memorable nightcap. HOW: To find out more, please visit ositostap.com Maxwell Street Market Renowned as Chicago’s longest-running market, the Maxwell Street Market is a local favourite that offers visitors a chance to fully immerse themselves in the culture of the city’s 77 neighbourhoods. Held on select Sundays from May through to October, the market features an eclectic mix of street food, handmade crafts, vintage clothing, and more. Beyond shopping and dining, visitors can connect with local vendors, learn about their crafts, and enjoy a jam-packed programme of live music and dance performances, ranging from mariachi to blues and rock. HOW: Maxwell Street Market is open on Sunday 17th May, 7th June, 19th July, 9th August, 13th September and 4th October. Entrance to the market is free. For more information on location and timings please visit chicago.gov The Hideout Hidden inside a 100-year-old house on the outskirts of Wicker Park, The Hideout is the kind of place travellers might easily walk past if not for the steady crowd of locals gathered outside. First opened in 1934, it began as a humble bar for Chicago’s hardworking community and has since evolved into one of the city’s most beloved, offbeat venues. Today, The Hideout retains its charm while offering an exciting mix of entertainment. Here guests might find themselves attending an intimate live podcast recording one night, then returning to catch an up-and-coming artist delivering an electrifying set the next.  HOW: To find out more, please visit hideoutchicago.com Lookingglass Theatre Set within the historic Water Tower Water Pumping Station on Chicago’s Magnificent Mile, the Lookingglass Theatre Company redefines what theatre can be. Known for its bold, visually captivating productions, it often blends storytelling with elements of dance and circus arts to create truly immersive experiences. A national leader in innovative and cutting-edge performances, Lookingglass delivers unforgettable shows while also giving back, by supporting Chicago-area students through inspiring education and community programmes. HOW: To find out more and to explore the shows, please visit lookingglasstheatre.org Soul & Smoke Driven by a passion for bold flavours and high-quality barbecue, Soul & Smoke has quickly become a favourite across Chicago. Founded by Chef D’Andre Carter and partner Heather Bublick, the restaurants serve up comforting, soul-inspired dishes crafted with care and precision. From the perfect meat-to-bone ratio on the ribs to the expertly balanced spices in Chef Carter’s signature sauce, every detail is thoughtfully considered. The result is a hearty, satisfying dining experience that makes Soul & Smoke a must-visit for families and anyone craving a delicious meal made with love.  HOW: Soul & Smoke has operating restaurants in the Evanston, Avondale and West Loop neighbourhoods. To find out more and to book, please visit soulandsmoke.com For more information on Chicago, please visit choosechicago.com

Looking for fresh sea air and a relaxing getaway? Head to the west of Ireland and unwind in a 4-star hotel combining comfort and tranquillity. Located in the charming seaside village of Enniscrone, in County Sligo, the Diamond Coast Hotel enjoys a prime location overlooking Killala Bay and just moments from the town’s renowned golf course. With its stunning coastal scenery and peaceful atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to switch off and recharge. Whether you're a golf enthusiast, planning a romantic escape or a family break, the hotel offers something for everyone in a warm and elegant setting. Special offer: Stay 5 nights or more and enjoy 15% off your total stay. From June 1st to 6th, book an executive room with views over the Enniscrone countryside for €1069 instead of €1250 for 5 nights , saving €188. Find out more about the offer on the hotel’s website: www.diamondcoast.ie

Looking to escape for a few days? Head to the Midlands Park Hotel, a 4-star property located in the heart of Portlaoise, perfect for discovering Ireland away from the hustle and bustle of big cities. Blending local charm with modern comfort, this hotel is ideal for switching off and unwinding. Enjoy the spa, indoor swimming pool and wellness facilities to relax after a day exploring the surrounding region. Its central location also makes it a great base for discovering Ireland’s beautiful landscapes. The hotel’s rooms offer everything you need for a comfortable stay, in an elegant atmosphere. Special offer: Stay 3 nights or more and enjoy 10% off your total stay. For example, for a stay from June 1st to 6th, book a Deluxe Room for €972 instead of €1080, saving €108. Discover the offer on the website: midlandsparkhotel.com

Today, Bealtaine Festival , Ireland’s national celebration of the arts and ageing, reveals its highly anticipated 2026 programme. Kicking off on the 1st of May, this Age & Opportunity  initiative brings together artists, communities, and audiences for a full month of arts, entertainment and community. From the start of the month, events unfold nationwide in arts centres and community spaces, alongside online workshops and screenings, ensuring audiences everywhere can take part. Bealtaine Festival is proudly funded by the Arts Council and the HSE, supported by communities nationwide and a vast network of accomplished local and national bodies. The 2026 programme continues the festival’s exploration of its Lust for Life   theme, inspired by the iconic anthem by Iggy Pop. The theme reframes ageing as a time of energy, reinvention, and creative possibility. Following a month of nationwide activity, the festival reaches its flagship finale from the 28th to the 30th of May , taking over the Project Arts Centre in Dublin.  Across these three days and nights, audiences can experience a rich mix of performance, visual arts, music, film, literature, and dance. This weekend forms the centrepiece of the festival, bringing artists and audiences together for a celebratory conclusion to the month’s festivities. Alongside Project Arts Centre, the festival partners with premier venues including Temple Bar Gallery + Studios, the Irish Film Institute, the National Photographic Archive, and Photo Museum Ireland. Bealtaine 2026 Flagship Programme Highlights The Big Bealtaine Tea Party: A must-see highlight of the 2026 festival, this joyful intergenerational gathering at the Irish Museum of Modern Art (IMMA)  blends music, storytelling and live performance. Curated by Bealtaine Citizen Curators Joe Maguire, Madge O’Callaghan and Peter Clarke , it features writer Tom Dredge , storyteller Ruth Marshall  and actor Bríd Ní Neachtain . Nationwide Dawn & Dusk Chorus: This much-loved annual tradition returns in partnership with  Sing Ireland , bringing singing groups and older singers together across the country. Voices rise at sunrise and sunset in towns, villages and cities nationwide, celebrating the festival’s Lust for Life  theme through song. Miriam O’Callaghan in Conversation with Susan McKay: One of Ireland’s most recognisable broadcasters reflects on her career, her memoir Miriam: Life, Work, Everything , and her insights on ageing, womanhood, and life in the public eye. Sex (No) Drugs & Rock N Roll: Bass players Cait O’Riordan  and Barry Devlin explore music, showbands, punk, addiction, abstinence and life on the road in a candid discussion chaired by Nadine O’Regan . Retired? You Must Be Joking!: Bealtaine Ambassadors Liz McManus  and Mike Hanrahan  host a lively exchange on art, ageing and visibility, joined by guests Éilís Ní Dhuibhne  and Kieran Hanrahan. Not Dead Yet: Love, Intimacy and Dating in Later Life: A bold and candid exploration of romance in the modern age. Chaired by writer, broadcaster and storyteller Barbara Scully , this headline discussion features the iconic Rory O’Neill (Panti Bliss) , musician Leslie Dowdall , and neuroscientist Dr. Sabina Brennan . From the evolution of intimacy to the realities of modern dating, the panel dives into the emotional and social dimensions of relationships in later life, followed by a relaxed ‘Mix & Mingle’ social event. Éireann and I present ‘This Land Bears our Name’: This special commission for Bealtaine explores older migrants’ relationships with Dublin city with newly produced images made during a sound walking workshop, together with images from participants’ personal archives.  Won’t Be Told by Tumble Circus: A rebellious circus adventure packed with wild acrobatics, absurd juggling and irreverent comedy, touring venues nationwide throughout May. We Are An Archipelago: A moving spoken-word and live music performance inspired by the true story of a 99-year-old man returning to his island home after eighty years away. The piece explores friendship, homecoming and embracing change later in life. 6 O’Clock Rock with Sing Along Social:  Inspired by 2024’s 4 O’Clock Rock, a closing intergenerational dance celebrating our Lust for Life. All welcome! Standing on the Shoulders of Giants: In partnership with the International Literature Festival Dublin, Phillip McMahon  joins Gerry Stembridge  in conversation about mentorship, influence and artistic legacy across generations. Johnny Got a Bus Pass: Little John Nee’s funny, heartfelt, musical and celebratory memoir. A state-of-the-nation and masterclass of the joys of being an elder punk The 2026 programme also features National Arts in Nursing Homes Day  (in partnership with Nursing Homes Ireland), artist talks, film screenings and retrospectives, visual art exhibitions, writing and memoir workshops, dance and drumming sessions, and filmmaking masterclasses throughout May. At the launch, Dr Tara Byrne, Arts Programme Manager and Artistic Director of Bealtaine Festival at Age & Opportunity, said: “Bealtaine Festival 2026 is one of our most dynamic festivals yet. We are presenting a wide-ranging programme that positions the festival as a landmark moment in Ireland’s cultural calendar. From nationally resonant traditions like the Dawn & Dusk Chorus to a flagship weekend packed with unmissable performances and some of Ireland’s most significant artists, Bealtaine Festival continues to challenge the perceptions of ageing while celebrating the extraordinary creative contribution of older artists and communities. These are events that demand attention and we are proud to see the festival growing in scale, confidence and impact each year.” Bealtaine Festival is an initiative of Age & Opportunity, funded by the Arts Council and the HSE. Age & Opportunity is the national organisation working to enable the best quality of life for us all as we age. To find out more about the 2026 Bealtaine Festival and to book your tickets, visit www.bealtaine.ie .

As International Earth Day approaches on 22 April, Zurich, Switzerland remains a top green city, a reputation reinforced by its EarthCheck 2025 certification. This commitment to sustainability is evident across all aspects of daily life, perhaps most notably on the plate. From pioneering vegetarian spots to zero-waste dining, plant-based innovation and conscious food experiences, the city champions a thoughtful, forward-looking approach to gastronomy. Read on to discover sustainable culinary highlights from across the city. Top Dining Spots Experience the oldest vegetarian restaurant in the world  Officially recognised by Guinness World Records as the world’s oldest continuously run vegetarian restaurant, Haus Hiltl  has been serving guests for over 125 years. The origins go back to when Ambrosius Hiltl first visited the ‘Vegetarian Home’ to treat rheumatism and recovered quickly. There, he met Martha Gneupel, the cook, and they fell in love, married, and soon took over the restaurant. Martha was a pioneer of vegetarian cuisine in a male-dominated culinary world whose legacy endures to this day. Today, Hiltl has expanded beyond its original Sihlstrasse location to several sites across Zurich, offering a buffet of more than 100 vegetarian and vegan dishes. Discover sustainable dining with a social mission at Schipfe 16 Located in Zurich’s picturesque Old Town beside the river Limmat, Schipfe 16  combines a focus on sustainability with a strong social purpose. The restaurant is city-owned and part of a work integration programme which provides employment and support for people re-entering the workforce, including young jobseekers and those with disabilities. In the kitchen, regional and seasonal ingredients take centre stage, Swiss-sourced meat, locally caught fish, and organic dairy products are complemented by Fairtrade-certified rice, coffee and juices. Even the drinks reflect this ethos, with Swiss-made soft drinks and locally sourced ‘Züri water’ served in place of bottled mineral water. Tuck into Green Michelin dining across the city  Zurich is home to seven Michelin Green Star restaurants which include DAR, EquiTable, KLE, Marktküche, Rechberg 1837, Silex and Wirtschaft im FRANZ which firmly place the city among Europe’s leading capitals for sustainable dining. Among them, KLE  made history as Switzerland’s first vegan restaurant to earn a Michelin star, while Rechberg 1837  offers a truly unique approach, cooking as it was done 200 years ago using only ingredients available in the region. This means no imported products, coffee included, but inventive alternatives such as locally made lupine coffee which is made from lupin beans. Together, these restaurants showcase Zurich’s diverse and deeply rooted commitment to sustainability. Learn how Zurich is tackling food waste The city Zurich is taking active steps to reduce food waste through innovative, community-led initiatives. At Äss-Bar , visitors can buy ‘yesterday’s leftovers’ from local bakeries at reduced prices, giving high-quality food a second life rather than letting it go to waste. Meanwhile, the Madame Frigo  network provides publicly accessible fridges across the city, where residents can share surplus items such as fruit, vegetables and bread. Maintained by local volunteers, these fridges run on trust and community spirit, helping ensure good food reaches those who need it most. Incredible Experiences Embark on an Herbal-Walk tour of the city With plenty of green spaces across the city, Zurich is a natural environment for a range of native herbs to thrive. Gruner Hut  - Green Hat in English - offers English tours with its expert Ulrike, to explore and try the natural herbs flourishing across the city. The guided herb walk tour lasts two hours and helps guests to understand the basics of foraging touring across the city from the Botanical Garden to the forests.  Explore the local markets across the city Weekly markets are plentiful across Zurich, forming a long-standing tradition and a vital part of the city’s food culture. These vibrant markets offer an abundance of fresh, regional produce and are scattered across neighbourhoods. From Bürkliplatz  by Lake Zurich offering fresh vegetable produce weekly to the permanent Market Hall  in the viaduct arches of Zurich West, each market has its own character. Known for their exceptional quality, the markets are not only popular with locals but also serve as a source of inspiration for Zurich’s chefs, who shop them regularly. Taste bean-to-bar chocolate in Zurich Zurich’s craft chocolate scene is thriving and one brand to keep on the radar is female-founded Garçoa. The brand works with just two ingredients, pure cacao and organic cane sugar, and sources the beans directly from farms they have personally visited in Peru, Ghana and India to ensure both quality and transparency. This approach has earned international recognition. Visitors can delve deeper into the process through Garçoa’s ‘ Chocolate Safari’ , an immersive tasting experience at the small-scale factory that offers a behind-the-scenes look at bean-to-bar production and the craftsmanship behind each bar.

TasteWaterford.ie is offering visitors a new way to discover Ireland’s oldest city with the launch of three immersive food tours, bringing Waterford’s past and present to life through storytelling, local flavours and the people behind them, across both the city’s streets and surrounding landscapes. Waterford’s culinary story is deeply rooted in history. Shaped by Vikings, Huguenots and centuries of trade, the city is known for a number of notable firsts, from the arrival of coffee on historic Coffee House Lane to the invention of the bacon rasher and cream cracker. Today, that legacy lives on in a vibrant food scene defined by creativity, quality and a strong sense of place, driven by local producers and independent businesses. The ‘Waterford City Select Taste Tour’ is a lively three-hour walking experience led by guide Pamela Flanagan, combining engaging history with tastings across five venues. The tour connects past and present on Coffee House Lane, where guests take part in a coffee cupping session, exploring flavour profiles and origins in the very location where coffee first entered Ireland. From here, the focus shifts to producers at Momo Restaurant, where seasonal, locally sourced ingredients take centre stage. A sweet stop follows at Carter’s Chocolate Café, known for its rich hot chocolate. The tour then explores a contemporary food space where a mix of vendors reflects the city’s increasingly diverse food culture, before concluding in the Viking Triangle, where the iconic Waterford blaa is served with a variety of fillings, linking back to a tradition dating to 17th-century Huguenot influence. The ‘Waterford Heritage Taste Tour’ offers an immersive evening experience, guided by Stíofán Mac Cárthaigh, weaving together hidden streets, historic landmarks and standout dining. Beginning at the House of Waterford Crystal, and onto the Viking Triangle for its first tasting, where the famous blaa is served within a space that incorporates medieval city walls dating back 900 years. The culinary journey continues with a refined seasonal starter at Mara, whose chef includes experience at a three-Michelin-star kitchen in Spain. The final stop is at Momo Restaurant for a main course built around the best of the season, paired with craft beer tastings from a local leading brewery. Throughout the evening, guests gain insight into the relationships between chefs and producers that define the city’s modern food identity. Beyond the city, the ‘Mountain Splendour Taste Tour’ offers a full-day experience set against the Comeragh and Knockmealdown Mountains. Led by guide Johnny Landers, it introduces visitors to the land, traditions and people behind Waterford’s food culture. The day begins at the Granville Hotel, where guests can opt for a breakfast highlighting local ingredients, including Flahavan’s oats and the Waterford blaa. The tour then moves into Crough Wood for a foraging experience with expert Andrew Malcolm, discovering the edible landscape. At a local mountain farm, sustainable and organic methods are showcased through seasonal vegetables and pasture-raised poultry. The journey continues to Mahon Falls, where visitors meet a sixth-generation farmer who shares traditional shepherding techniques and introduces his flock of Scottish Blackface sheep, shaped by generations of farming in the area. The tour concludes with a lunch experience that reflects the surrounding landscape, featuring locally sourced produce and, when in season, Comeragh mountain lamb. Commenting on the tours, Richard Povey of Taste Waterford said the experiences present “a compelling portrait of Waterford as a destination where food, history and landscape are deeply intertwined,” offering visitors an authentic and sensory journey through one of Ireland’s most distinctive culinary regions. For those looking to extend their stay, Waterford offers a wide variety of accommodation options across the city and county. Visitors can explore and plan a full weekend experience by browsing the range of places to stay on  visitwaterford.com . Taste Waterford tour prices range from €70 to €110 per person; for further details, see  TasteWaterford.ie